Research Associate, Screening and Automation

About the role…

We are seeking a motivated, creative, and detail-oriented Research Associate (RA) to join our highly innovative and collaborative Science Platform Team at Inari. The ideal candidate should have a strong background in scaling up cellular and molecular assays using a wide range of laboratory automation. This individual will work independently and as part of a team to develop plant cellular assays and lead the deployment of laboratory automation solutions to scale up Inari’s high-throughput screening capacities. This position offers opportunities to work in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment to build automated workflows based on assay specific needs and will require creative, innovative, and flexible thinking.

We prioritize creativity, excellent communication skills, and a willingness to work and learn in a dynamic team environment for this role. Beyond our science, we live by our core values: Collaboration, Bold, Open, Integrity, and Diversity. We welcome challenging ideas and thrive on innovation. If you are passionate about high-throughput screening assays and automation and interested in joining a dynamic team that values innovation and collaboration, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!

As a Research Associate, you will...

• Contribute to a cross-functional team by optimizing and scaling Inari’s protoplast and plant cell screening platform.
• Operate and program Inari’s suite of liquid handling robots including those from Biomek and Hamilton.
• Scale up high-throughput plant cell-based assays in 96 well format with suitable automation methodologies.
• Explore new laboratory automation solutions with an innovative mindset to improve operational efficiency.
• Develop, author, and execute SOPs for automated methods and ensure proper training of end users.
• Collaborate with scientists to develop new assays that support company objectives.
• Engage in scientific discussions and communicate individual contributions or team findings to internal stakeholders.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of experiments and effectively communicate scientific results and progress.
• Work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team to solve complex problems and achieve goals/deadlines.

You bring...

• A B.S. in cell or molecular biology, or related field with 3+ years of relevant experience or M.S in cell or molecular biology with 1+ years of relevant experience .
• Hands-on experience in cell culture and screening techniques
• Strong experience in programing, operating and maintaining automated liquid handling platforms.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot technical and scientific issues, both individually and as part of a team.
• Must have excellent organizational and time management skills, and attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• A collaborative mindset that is open to giving and receiving ideas, perspectives, and feedback.
• Ability to work both independently and as a part of a team to deliver on responsibilities within a highly collaborative environment.
• A sense of adventure and excitement to work in a fast-paced and multidisciplinary team environment.

Bonus qualifications...

• Familiarity with Hamilton and Biomek liquid handlers.
• Experience with gene editing and CRISPR-Cas technologies.
• General knowledge of plant physiology and molecular biology, and agricultural biotechnology.

FOR U.S. CANDIDATES: Please note that we use the resume you submit with your application during our background check process. To ensure an efficient and accurate background verification, we kindly ask that you carefully review and accurately represent your work history, education and other relevant information on your resume. Any discrepancies or inaccuracies found during the background check may impact your candidacy for the position.